Utility meter cover

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to protective covers for utility meters, such as gas and electric meters. An open framework of horizontal and vertical members supports a plurality of arch support members. A protective shield is secured on the framework, forming a dome cover over the utility meter.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention relates to protective coverings for utility meters, and more particularly protective structures for utility meters installed outdoors and exposed to the environment.

[0002] Gas and electric utility meters are conventionally installed outdoors; with gas meters installed on the ground and the electric meters usually mounted on a vertical wall of a building. The utility meters are vulnerable to impact damage from falling tree branches, snow and ice accumulation, winds and other calamities. The conventional utility meters are not usually protected by any shelter or cover.

[0003] The present invention contemplates provision of a cage constructed of relatively strong impact resistant material and designed to provide a barrier between the impact force of an outdoor environment to thereby to protect the meter and avoid interruption of services to the building structure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a protective cover for an outdoor utility meter.

[0005] It is another object of the present invention to provide a utility meter cover that does not interfere with the normal operation of the meter, being an independent structure.

[0006] It is a further object of the present invention to provide an inexpensive and easily installed cover for a utility meter.

[0007] These and other objects of the present invention are achieved through a provision of a meter cover comprised of an open frame and an arched shield extending over the frame. In some of the embodiments, the frame comprises a pair of parallel base plates, a plurality of arched support members extending between the base plates and a plurality of horizontal bars extending transversely to the arched support members and in a spaced relationship to each other. The frame further comprises a plurality of sockets fixedly attached to the base plates, each of the sockets receiving an end of the arched support member therein. These embodiments are designed for mounting on a horizontal surface in covering relationship over a gas meter.

[0008] Another embodiment of the cover of the present invention is adapted for mounting on a wall of a building in a covering relationship over an electric meter. This embodiment provides for the use of a rectangular frame that carries securing members extending from each corner of the frame. An arched shield has four receiving members secured to an interior surface thereof. When the shield is positioned on the frame, the securing members are received within the receiving members and allow the shield to be secured to the frame. A central opening in the frame is sized to receive an electric meter therein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Reference will now be made to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals and wherein

[0010]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the first embodiment of the utility meter cover in accordance with the present invention.

[0011]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the second embodiment of the utility meter cover in accordance with the present invention.

[0012]FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the utility meter cover in accordance with the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0013]FIG. 4 is a side view of the utility meter cover of the third embodiment of the present invention shown mounted on a vertical support.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0014] Turning now to the drawings in more detail, FIG. 1 illustrates the first embodiment of the utility meter cover in accordance with the present invention. This embodiment is particularly adapted for protection of a utility meter against top loads.

[0015] The utility meter cover 10 is a freestanding structure of a dome-shape configuration that has a height at the top point to extend above the top of a utility meter, such as a gas meter. The cover is formed as a framework of horizontal, arched and vertical members that support an arched shield.

[0016] The framework comprises a pair of parallel base plates 12 and 14 made of angle steel rods. Each base plate 12 and 14 has a horizontal member 16 adapted for positioning on the ground on opposite sides of a meter 18 that is to be protected. The vertical members 20 of the base plates 14 and 12 extend upwardly at a right angle to the horizontal members 16.

[0017] A plurality of tubular sockets 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, and 32 is secured to the horizontal members 16 of the base plates 12 and 14. In this embodiment, three sockets are secured to each of the base plates 12 and 14. The tubular sockets 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, and 32 are made of rust-resistant pipes, for instance 2″ diameter steel pipes that can be welded to the steel base plates 12 and 14. The sockets 22, 24, 26, 28, 30 and 32 extend vertically in relation to the ground, with the axes of the sockets being in general parallel relationship to the vertical surfaces of the base plate members 20.

[0018] A plurality of arched members 40, 42, and 44 extend between the base plates 12 and 14. The arched members 40, 42, and 44 are made of aluminum pipes bent to form a 180-degree arch, with the ends of each of the arched members fitting into the sockets 22-32. The arched members 40, 42, and 44 can be made of 1½-inch schedule 40 aluminum pipes that can be bent into 21-inch radius, which was found to be suitable for more conventional utility meters. As shown in FIG. 1, each of the sockets 22, 24, 26, 28, 30 and 32 receives an end of the arch support members 40, 42, and 44, forming a stable self-supporting structure.

[0019] A plurality of horizontal bars 46, 48, 50, 52, and 54 is secured to the arched members 40, 42, and 44. In this embodiment, five horizontal bars are attached to the arched members with suitable bolts, washers and rivets, where required. Each of the bars 46, 38, 40, 52 and 54 is secured at three points at each of the points of intersection with the arched support members 40, 42, and 44. Of course, other means of attaching the horizontal bars to the arched members may be employed if desired.

[0020] In a tested meter cover, the horizontal bars 46, 48, 50, 52 and 54 were made of A36 steel plates having {fraction (3/16)}″ thickness. The horizontal bars bridge across the aluminum arch support members to form a support for the dome shield 60.

[0021] The body of the shield 60 is made of high-density polyethylene with special additives to provide a rigidity and moisture impermeability. The shield 60 can be made from ¼″ high-density polyethylene, which is provided with additives to prevent breakdown due to exposure to UV rays. The carriage bolts extend through the horizontal bars 46, 44, 48, 50 52 and 54, shield 60 and are secured to the arch support members 40, 42, and 44.

[0022] If desired, the horizontal bars, the arch support members 40, 42, and 44, the pipe sockets 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, and 32, as well as the angular base plates 12 and 14 can be painted a color to match the color of the shield 60. The shield 60 can be manufactured in a variety of colors that can be selected by the user based on the user's preference. The utility cover 10 may have various dimensions.

[0023] It is envisioned that 48″ and 60″ models will be available to accommodate any size meters. The domed design creates a high impact resistant enclosure for the utility meter while still having the lightest weight possible.

[0024] It is also envisioned that the cover 10 may need to be anchored to the ground to prevent overturning by strong winds, Various methods of anchoring the cover are contemplated. For instance, the base plates 12 and 14 may be anchored with concrete anchors, passing through the base plate members 16, or the base plate members may be mounted in trenches of about 6 inches deep, with the trenches then backfilled and compacted.

[0025] Still another variation of installation where the covers must be mounted on concrete, asphalt or other rigid paving compound, may use wedge anchors of Hilti type. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the sockets 22-32 are embedded so that the tops 56 are flush with ground level 58. Concrete footing 59 is poured around the base plates 12 and 14 to securely anchor the cover 10.

[0026] Minor elevation adjustments for level positioning can be accomplished with holes drilled through the sockets 22-32 and lifting the ends of the arched aluminum pipes 40, 42 and 44 to compensate for uneven ground. In such situations, suitable clamps extending through pre-drilled holes (not shown) in the sockets will allow the arched support members to be lifted at one end and then secured within the sockets.

[0027] Still another method of adjusting for unevenness of the ground can be accomplished with a concrete foundation rising above the ground. The foundation can be embedded 6 inches in the ground to rest upon undisturbed soil. It is preferred that the maximum height above ground should be held to 12 inches to ensure a secure position of the enclosure.

[0028] With a concrete foundation, embedded bolts must be used for securing the base plates 12 and 14 to the concrete foundation. Should the shield 60 become damaged by fallen trees, impact with grass mowers or other lawn care equipment, or in a landslide, a replacement cover can be easily provided by disengaging the shield with the horizontal and arched members and positioning another such shield in engagement with the embedded base plates.

[0029] Turning now to the embodiment of FIG. 2, the protective cover for the utility meter is designated by numeral 61. The cover 61 similarly to the cover 10 is made as a framework of horizontal, arched, and vertical members secured together to form a dome-shaped enclosure. The cover 61 has base plates 62 and 64 made of angle steel rods supporting the arched and vertical members.

[0030] A plurality of pipe sockets 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, and 76 is welded or riveted to the base plates 62 and 64. The sockets 66, 68, 70, 72, 74 and 76 extend vertically at a right angle to the horizontal portions of the base plate 62 and 64.

[0031] A plurality of arch support members 80, 82, and 84 are made of lightweight aluminum pipes that are bent to form a 180-degree arch. Each pipe arch is of a different height and width. The first arched member 80 is about 42 inches tall and 49½ inches wide. The middle arch 82 is 42½ inches tall and 54½ inches wide. Finally, the third, rear arch, 84 is made of a pipe that is the tallest, being 42 inches in height with a width of 60 inches.

[0032] This particular embodiment of the present invention is especially adapted for resisting side impact from falling ice, snow, trees and other similar accidental impacts. The flaring shield feature is designed to minimize damage by angle deflection and anchoring of the unit utilizing slotted pipe sleeve system.

[0033] Similarly to the embodiment of FIG. 1, the cover 61 comprises a plurality of horizontal bars 86, 88, 90, 92 and 94 extending between the three arch support members 80, 82, and 84. The horizontal bars are secured to the arch members by rivets and bolts. Long carriage bolts pass through the shield 100 extending between the arch members, through the horizontal members, and through the arched pipes. The bolts may be secured with a special washer, lock washer and bolted below.

[0034] The cover 61 can be secured on the ground to prevent the effects of high winds by a number of methods. It is envisioned that in very sandy or light loamy soil, a concrete anchor consisting of one bag of Redimix per each of the two base plates may be required. The unit may be set in place over the meter to mark where the base plates 62 and 64 rest on the ground. The angle outlines are then marked with chalk, and two trenches following the outline are dug, each trench being about 6 inches deep. The cover 61 is then lowered so that the base plates extend into the ground and the cement is added to the trenches and centralize position of the cover 61.

[0035] For the installation in dense top soil, clay, or other dense material, the anchor plates 62, 64 may be positioned in 6 inch deep trenches, then backfilled and compacted. If the unit is designed to sit atop of concrete, asphalt or other rigid paving compound, installation is accomplished with wedge anchors (Hilti type or equal) with a minimum of 4-inch embedment. It is envisioned that 6 such wedge anchors may be required.

[0036] The elevation adjustment on the ground can be accomplished by methods similar to methods of adjustment described above for the first embodiment of this invention.

[0037] Turning now to the embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 4, the cover for the utility meter is designated by numeral 110. The cover 110 is designed for mounting on a vertical surface, such as a sidewall 112 of a building structure. The cover 110 comprises a supporting frame 114 formed as a rectangular body comprised of horizontal bars 116, 118, and vertical bars 120, 122. The bars 116, 118, 120, and 122 are fixedly secured together. A central opening 124 is defined between the bars 116, 118, 120, and 122. The opening 124 is sized and shaped to receive a utility meter, for instance, an electrical meter herein.

[0038] Extending from each corner of the frame 114 is a frame-securing member 126, 128, 130, and 132. The securing members 126, 128, 130 and 132 can be made from a rectangular steel that can be welded or otherwise attached to the frame 114.

[0039] A dome shaped shield 134 is mounted above the frame 114. The shield 134 is made of high-density polyethylene with a thickness of ¼ inch or greater. The shield 134 has an outside surface 136 and an inside surface 138. Fixedly attached to the inside surface 138 and secured in a spaced relationship to each other, is a plurality of receiving members 140, 142, 146, and 148. The receiving members are hollow rectangular pipes that receive the securing members 126, 128, 130, and 132 in a sliding relationship therein.

[0040] The frame 114 is adapted for securing on a building 112 with one or more anchors 150, 152. The anchors extend through the frame members and into the wall 112. To install the utility meter cover 110, the user first mounts the frame 114 on the wall and then simply slides the top shield 134 over the frame, aligning the receiving members 140, 142, 146 and 148 with the axes of the securing members 126, 128, 130, and 132.

[0041] When the cover 110 is positioned around an electrical meter, the dome shield 134 protects the electric meter on top and on both sides. Ice, snow, debris, tree limbs, and similar damaging material slides off of the exterior surface 136 of the shield 134, protecting the meter against impact. The dimensions of the frame 114 are selected such that the vertical frame members 120 and 122 can be attached to the studs of the building wall, thus ensuring a secure installation.

[0042] The protective cover 110 can be manufactured in various sizes and widths. The units can be configured to accommodate weather heads or other adjacent utility devices. The color of the shield 134, as well as the frame 114 can be selected based on consumer preference. If desired, the entire structure may be painted in a selected color to match the exterior paint of the building. All materials used in the protective covers 10, 61, and 110 are non-corrosive, or if corrosive securing members are used, there may be painted with exterior paint to prevent damage and deterioration due to weather conditions.

[0043] Many changes and modifications can be made in the design of the present invention without departing from the spirit thereof. I, therefore, pray that my rights to the present invention be limited only by the scope of the appended claims. 

1. A cover for a utility meter, comprising: an open frame comprised of horizontal and vertical members; and an arched shield extending over the open frame, said shield being sized and shaped to substantially cover a utility meter.
 2. The cover of claim 1, wherein said frame comprises a pair of elongated base plates, a plurality of arched support members and a plurality of horizontal bars extending between said arched support members in a spaced relationship to each other and to said base plates.
 3. The cover of claim 2, wherein said base plates are adapted for positioning on a horizontal surface.
 4. The cover of claim 2, wherein said frame further comprises a plurality of sockets fixedly attached to the base plates, each of said sockets receiving an end of the arched support therein.
 5. The cover of claim 2, wherein said plurality of the arched support members comprises a first front arch member, a second middle arch member and a third rear arch member.
 6. The cover of claim 5, wherein said front, middle and rear arch members have substantially identical length.
 7. The cover of claim 5, wherein a distance between opposite ends of the rear arch member is greater than the distance between opposite ends of the front arch member.
 8. The cover of claim 1, wherein said frame comprises a rectangular frame assembly adapted for mounting on a vertical surface.
 9. The cover of claim 8, wherein said rectangular frame assembly is provided with securing members extending from each corner of the frame assembly and fixedly attached thereto.
 10. The cover of claim 9, wherein said arched shield has an interior surface and wherein a plurality of receiving members are attached to said interior surface, said receiving members receiving said securing members when the shield is mounted on the frame assembly.
 11. The cover of claim 10, wherein said receiving members and said securing members extend transversely to a normal axis of the frame assembly.
 12. A cover for a utility meter, comprising: an open frame comprised of a pair of parallel base plates, a plurality of arched support members extending between said base plates, each of said arched support member having an arcuate top portion, and a plurality of horizontal bars extending transversely to said arched support members and in a spaced relationship to each other; and a shield extending over the open frame, said shield being sized and shaped to substantially cover a utility meter.
 13. The cover of claim 12, wherein said frame further comprises a plurality of sockets fixedly attached to the base plates, each of said sockets receiving an end of the arched support member therein.
 14. The cover of claim 12, wherein said arched supports comprises a first front arch member, a second middle arch member and a third rear arch member, and wherein a distance between the front, middle and rear arch members is substantially identical.
 15. The cover of claim 12, wherein said arched supports comprises a first front arch member, a second middle arch member and a third rear arch member, and wherein a distance between opposite ends of the rear arch member is greater than the distance between opposite ends of the front arch member.
 16. A cover for a utility meter, comprising: an open rectangular frame configured for mounting on a vertical surface, said frame carrying a securing member fixedly attached and extending from each corner of frame; and a shield detachably mounted on said frame, said shield being provided with a means for securing said shield to said frame.
 17. The cover of claim 16, wherein said securing means comprises a plurality of open sleeves extending transversely to and fixedly attached to an interior surface of the shield, said sleeves receiving the securing members of the frame therein. 